Your furnace works hard to keep your home comfortable during Missouri's cold winters. But like any mechanical system, it requires regular maintenance to function efficiently and safely. One of the most common questions homeowners ask us at Barnard Heating and Cooling is how often you should have your furnace cleaned. Let's explore the recommended frequency for furnace cleaning and why it matters for your home.
The Standard Recommendation
Most HVAC professionals, including our team at Barnard Heating and Cooling, recommend having your HVAC professionally cleaned and inspected at least twice per year. Once to focus on your furnace, ideally scheduled in early fall — before you need to rely on your heating system for the winter months. The other to focus on your AC unit, also ideally planned in early spring.
Regular maintenance is the most important step you can take to ensure your HVAC system operates at peak efficiency and helps prevent future problems and unwanted costs.
Factors That May Require More Frequent Cleaning
Pets in the Home
If you have pets that shed, their fur and dander can quickly clog your furnace filter and accumulate in your system. Homes with multiple pets might benefit from furnace cleaning every six months.
Allergies or Respiratory Conditions
For households with members who suffer from allergies, asthma, or other respiratory conditions, more frequent HVAC cleaning (every six to nine months) can help maintain better indoor air quality.
Older Systems
HVAC systems that are over 10 years old often benefit from semi-annual cleaning and inspection, as they may accumulate debris more quickly and have components that wear faster.
Heavy System Usage
If you run your HVAC system almost constantly throughout the year, more frequent maintenance may be necessary to keep it running efficiently.
What Does Professional Furnace Cleaning Include?
A thorough furnace cleaning and inspection from a qualified technician typically includes:
- Cleaning furnace burners to ensure proper ignition and combustion
- Cleaning the flame sensor to prevent system shutdowns
- Inspecting and cleaning the heat exchanger to ensure safety and efficiency
- Cleaning the blower assembly and components
- Cleaning the condensate drain (for high-efficiency furnaces)
- Checking and cleaning the evaporator coil, if applicable
- Replacing the air filter
- Comprehensive system inspection
The Benefits of Regular Furnace Cleaning
Enhanced Energy Efficiency
A clean furnace operates more efficiently, which can lead to thousands of dollars in savings over its lifetime.
Extended System Lifespan
Regular cleaning removes built-up dirt and debris that cause wear and tear on components, potentially extending your system's life by several years.
Improved Air Quality
A clean furnace helps reduce airborne particulates in your home, leading to healthier air for your family to breathe.
Reduced Repair Costs
Regular maintenance helps identify small issues before they become major problems, potentially saving you hundreds or even thousands in repair costs.
Safer Operation
Perhaps most importantly, regular furnace cleaning helps prevent dangerous conditions like carbon monoxide leaks that can occur when a furnace is running inefficiently or has damaged components.
When To Schedule Your Next Furnace Cleaning
If it's been more than a year since your last furnace cleaning, or if you're experiencing any issues with your heating system, now is the time to schedule service. Regular maintenance is much more cost-effective than emergency repairs.
Contact us today to schedule your professional furnace cleaning and inspection with our experienced technicians at Barnard Heating and Cooling. Our HVAC cleaning services will ensure your home stays warm, safe, and comfortable all year long.